Art Therapy

MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology

The Transpersonal Counseling Psychology program emphasizes the combined integration of intellectual and emotional development with social and spiritual awareness. The Art Therapy degree concentration is approved by the American Art Therapy Association and is accredited with the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

Art therapy students follow a specialization of 32 credit hours in art therapy (including 180 direct contact hours of studio art) and 5 hours of contemplative studies within the total 62 credit hours required for the Transpersonal Counseling Psychology degree. The program strives to support the spiritual, artistic and academic unfolding of each student through active participation with a sitting meditation practice and progressive approaches to the field of art therapy. With sincere intentions, we have created an innovative learning environment that strives to support each student’s journey toward professional and spiritual wholeness. (See What is art therapy?)

The unique learning environment at Naropa University offers a wide range of challenging opportunities that are not available in many academic settings. Students participate in an innovative curriculum that embraces the careful integration of world wisdom traditions, particularly mindfulness meditation practice, with Western models of counseling psychology.

Upon completion of the three-year program, graduates will receive an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Art Therapy. In addition, students will graduate with the course work necessary to fulfill the postgraduation requirements for registration (ATR) with the American Art Therapy Association.

Program Highlights

• American Art Therapy Association–approved program
• Degree includes the necessary prerequisites for eventual ATR registration and LPC licensure once all post graduation requirements are met
• Degree prepares graduates for ATR registration
• Commitment to contemplative education and the applied integration of art with contemplative practices
• 180 direct contact hours of studio art
• Strong clinical training
• 20 week studio based practicum during the 1st year, 15 week clinical practicum during the 2nd year, full time clinical internship during the 3rd year
• Devoted faculty serving students in an innovative learning environment